The traditional copper wire network that has been around since the 1880s is also known as Plain Old Telephone Service (POTS). POTS will no longer be supported by the major carriers in the US.
Most businesses have already switched to newer technologies like fiber optic, mobile, and cellular and no longer need or want the expense of supporting outdated network infrastructure.
The FCC Mandates
The Federal Communications Commission has mandated that all POTS lines in the US must be retired and replaced with an alternative service by August 2, 2022. The FCC has ruled that POTS are no longer sustainable for several reasons.
The main reasons why copper phone lines are outdated include:
- POTS Lines are Expensive – Each POTS line costs $65-$100 per line. Many organizations have multiple lines. Besides voice lines, POTS are used for fax machines, ATMs, elevator call boxes, gate and door access, HVAC systems, and fire alarms. These lines can add up quickly and put a strain on any budget.
- POTS Lines Are Exposed – Copper wires are exposed and can be damaged by the outside world. Natural disasters, bad weather, and other problems can leave POTS lines vulnerable and needing repair or maintenance. Downtime is less likely when digital options, like those offered from Crexendo VIP.
- POTS Lines Lack Monitoring Abilities – Because they are physical infrastructure, POTS lines cannot be monitored. Unlike digital services there is no way to perform remote management on physical lines. That means when a line is damaged, it is difficult to locate, and customers often will not know it is down until they try to use it.
- POTS Lines Face Limited Support – The workforce that is trained and holds ample knowledge of POTS lines is rapidly aging out of the workforce and retiring. Today, fewer professionals are capable of handling repairs when they are needed. Outdated technology and equipment shortages are creating problems including preventing repairs from getting done quickly.
When all of these factors are taken into consideration and combined, what you have is the perfect recipe for frequent and costly downtime. If you’re unsure what to do and want to know about the latest communications technologies and options for your business, reach out and contact your DSI representative today. Let us show you all your options in telephony!
About DSI
DSI has over 20 years’ experience providing award-winning business technology solutions to their customers in New Mexico and Texas. Products and services include Printers, Copiers and MFPs, Faxing and Scanning Solutions, Wide Format Printers and Production Print, Video Surveillance, VoIP and Digital Whiteboards.
For the latest industry trends and technology insights visit DSI’s main Blog page. Â
Jocelyn Gorman, the Executive Vice President of DSI, possesses a deep understanding of the unique requirements of growing businesses. With over a decade of experience collaborating with clients across various industries, she closely collaborates with her Sales Team to develop and implement tailored technology solutions. These solutions aim to enhance office productivity and minimize operational costs. Her remarkable ability to effectively address business challenges has garnered recognition from prestigious publications such as the Cannata Report and Family Business Magazine.
